Those of us who have read the books will know that around the time of the Council of Elrond they were out scouting about for the Nazgul and Orcs (if not exactly then, then shortly thereafter). Their storyline wasn't necessary for LotR, but as with Radagast, I hope the filmmakers take advantage of the opportunity to have them be at home when Bilbo and Co. arrive--just as I hope they take advantage of the opportunity to have Legolas be at home with his Dad when the dwarves and Bilbo get to Thranduil's halls. Let's keep our fingers crossed, Flagg. (If not, we'll have to be content to see them in the fanfilms Born of Hope and here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0G6ixwyTUdk Permanent address: Into the West